In a shocking and tragic incident, Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare CEO, was fatally shot on December 4, 2024, outside the Hilton Midtown in New York City. Authorities are investigating the incident as a “brazen, targeted attack,” which occurred early in the morning as Thompson walked toward the hotel where UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference was set to take place.
The Incident: A Brazen Attack in Midtown Manhattan
Around 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Thompson, who had been visiting from Minnesota, was ambushed by a gunman as he approached the Hilton Midtown. Witnesses say the shooter, masked and dressed to withstand the cold temperatures, waited for Thompson before launching the attack. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that the shooting was premeditated, describing it as a targeted and planned assault.
The assailant shot Thompson multiple times, including once in the back and once in the calf. Despite swift efforts by emergency responders, Thompson was pronounced dead at Mount Sinai West Hospital shortly after the attack.
Clues Left Behind: Investigators Search for the Gunman
As the gunman fled the scene, investigators discovered a series of clues that could lead to his identity. Shell casings found at the scene bore unusual markings—words like “deny,” “defend,” and “depose”—which could provide key insights into the motive behind the attack. Though a motive remains unclear, sources close to the investigation revealed that UnitedHealthcare had received threats against its executives in the past, although Thompson’s name was not directly mentioned in those warnings.
Further investigation into the assailant’s actions revealed some surprising details. Surveillance footage showed the shooter walking with an electric bike moments before the attack. Police believe the suspect may have dropped a phone and a water bottle while fleeing, which could provide vital DNA and fingerprint evidence. Investigators are also examining video footage from a nearby Starbucks, where the shooter was seen purchasing a bottle of water and two energy bars shortly before the incident.
A Community in Shock: Remembering Brian Thompson
Thompson’s sudden and senseless death has left colleagues, friends, and family in mourning. UnitedHealthcare CEO Andrew Witty expressed deep shock over the loss, describing Thompson as a “truly extraordinary person” who touched the lives of countless individuals. Flags at the company’s headquarters in Minnetonka, Minnesota, were lowered to half-staff in his honor.
“Brian was a highly respected leader and friend to all who worked with him,” the company said in a statement. “His passing is a devastating blow to all of us at UnitedHealthcare.”
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, also spoke out in the wake of his death, remembering him as a loving husband and father. “We are shattered to hear about the senseless killing of our beloved Brian,” she told the media. “Brian was an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest.”
UnitedHealthcare’s Response and the Ongoing Investigation
UnitedHealthcare abruptly ended its scheduled investor conference, citing the “very serious medical situation” concerning one of its executives. The company has been working closely with law enforcement as the investigation unfolds. Police are still searching for the suspect, and a reward of up to $10,000 has been offered for any information leading to an arrest.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the suspect, but they have released photos of the man believed to be involved. In one of the images, the assailant is seen before the shooting, in another while using a bicycle, and a third shows a frontal view of the suspect.
What We Know About the Shooter
According to law enforcement experts, the gunman appeared to have considerable experience with firearms. Surveillance footage from the scene shows the shooter clearing a jammed gun before firing again, indicating proficiency in handling such malfunctions. Investigators also believe that the assailant may have planned his escape by taking an e-bike, which was last seen in the direction of Central Park.
As police continue their search, the community remains in shock over this senseless act of violence. UnitedHealthcare has promised to support the investigation and work closely with authorities to bring the perpetrator to justice.